Appealing a Swedish Citizenship Rejection — 3-Week Deadline
Last updated: 2026-05-15 · Source: Migrationsverket, Sveriges Domstolar
Important: deadline
You have 3 weeks from the date of the decision to submit an appeal. If you miss this deadline, the Migration Court cannot accept the case. The exact date is stated in the appendix to your rejection.
The appeal process — step by step
The Migration Court (Migrationsdomstolen) in Malmö handles all appeals of citizenship rejections. You do not send the appeal directly to the court — it goes via Migrationsverket.
Read the rejection carefully
Note the grounds for rejection — why did Migrationsverket reject you? That is what you need to address in your appeal. The grounds may relate to residency, income, conduct, or other criteria.
Send the appeal to Migrationsverket
A written appeal is sent to Migrationsverket (not directly to the court). State your case reference number and explain why you believe the decision is incorrect. Attach new evidence if you have any.
Migrationsverket forwards to the court
If Migrationsverket does not change its decision upon internal review (omprövning), it forwards the case to the Migration Court in Malmö.
The Migration Court reviews the case
The court reads all documents and assesses whether Migrationsverket followed the law. If needed, it can request additional information from you or Migrationsverket. Most cases are decided in writing without an oral hearing.
Migration Court of Appeal — last resort
If you are dissatisfied with the Migration Court's ruling, you can apply for leave to appeal at the Migration Court of Appeal (Migrationsöverdomstolen, Kammarrätten i Stockholm). Leave is only granted for cases of precedent value — this is rare.
What should the appeal include?
An appeal does not need to follow a specific form, but should include:
- → Your name and personal identity number (personnummer)
- → The case reference number (diarienummer)
- → Which decision you are appealing (date)
- → Why you believe the decision is incorrect (grounds for appeal)
- → What you are requesting (that the decision be changed, that citizenship be granted)
- → Attachments and evidence supporting your case
- → Your signature
Alternatives to appealing
If you were rejected because you don't meet the requirements, it may be more realistic to wait until you qualify and reapply — rather than appeal.
Appeal if...
- → You believe Migrationsverket made a factual error
- → You have new information or evidence
- → The decision conflicts with established case law
Reapply if...
- → You lack residency — wait until you meet the threshold
- → You lack income — improve your finances and reapply
- → Old conduct entries — limitation periods may apply
Need help with the appeal?
An immigration lawyer can assess your chances, formulate the grounds for appeal, and represent you before the Migration Court.
Find an immigration lawyer →Frequently asked questions
How long does processing take at the Migration Court?
It varies. Simpler cases may be decided in 3–6 months; more complex cases can take longer. The Migration Court decides most cases in writing without an oral hearing.
Does it cost anything to appeal?
There is no application fee for appealing a citizenship rejection.
Can I stay in Sweden while waiting for the court's decision?
Your rejection concerns citizenship, not your residence permit. Your right to remain in Sweden is normally not affected by the citizenship decision.
The information on this page is intended as general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified lawyer for your specific situation.